Wapanohk Community School in Thompson, located in northern Manitoba, has been chosen as one of only two Canadian schools participating in a special global arts program. The school is among 31 schools globally selected for the Crayola Creativity Week global ambassador program, celebrating student art and culture from January 26 to February 1. Crayola, known for its art supplies including crayons, initiated the program in 2022, collaborating with schools from 11 different countries.
Out of more than 1,200 schools that applied, Wapanohk and Emily Carr Public School in Oakville, Ontario, are the two Canadian representatives. Other participating countries include Australia, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, the U.K., and the U.S. Wapanohk Community School, which accommodates over 500 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, is a Cree immersion school, with its name translating to “east” in Cree.
Kirsten Svenkeson, a fourth-grade teacher at Wapanohk, submitted the application to host the event at the school. She expressed surprise and excitement at being selected, emphasizing the significance of creativity in the school’s curriculum. Crayola’s director of product marketing and communications, Margot Somerville, highlighted the importance of promoting Indigenous artists and art within the program, aligning with Canada’s focus on truth and reconciliation.
The school’s diverse arts programs, such as participation in the local Festival of the Arts, creation of student murals, and annual Christmas coloring contest, were highlighted in the application. Svenkeson emphasized the importance of showcasing all students’ talents, not just academically-driven ones. Throughout the week, students will engage in virtual sessions with artists, authors, and public figures from Crayola, creating art projects inspired by stories shared.
The week will culminate in a collaborative art project where each student will create a self-portrait on colored paper, forming a school-wide rainbow display. This initiative aims to foster cross-grade interaction and appreciation for students’ artwork. Svenkeson emphasized the significance of such programs reaching northern and rural schools, providing unique opportunities for students in these regions to engage in global initiatives.
She expressed hope that the program would boost students’ confidence in their artistic abilities and encourage them to express their unique perspectives. The initiative serves as a platform for students to showcase their identity through art and feel pride in their creative endeavors.
